KCET Exam Pattern 2027: Sections, Marking Scheme, Time Duration

Karnataka Common Entrance Test 2026 ( KCET )

Vikrant Shukla
Updated on May 29, 2026 15:23 IST

By Vikrant Shukla, Deputy Manager

Overview

KCET Exam Pattern 2027 - Karnataka Examination Authority prescribes KCET 2027 exam pattern and uploads it on - cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea. Students preparing for the KCET, must check the exam pattern of KCET 2027 to know number of questions, time duration, and marking scheme. The KCET exam is conducted offline in MCQ format. Each paper has 60 questions, a duration of 80 minutes per paper, and no negative marking. There are 3 papers, 1 each for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology and each question carries one mark each.  Along with the exam pattern, the KCET 2027 syllabus is equally crucial for up-to-the-mark preparation. For more details about the KCET exam pattern 2027, candidates can refer to the article below.

Table of contents
  • KCET Exam Pattern Key Highlights
  • KCET Subject Wise Weightage
  • KCET 2027 Total Marks and Marking Scheme
  • KCET Sections and Important Topics
  • FAQs related to the KCET Exam Pattern 2027
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KCET Exam Pattern Key Highlights

KCET Exam Pattern Overview

Feature

Details

Exam Mode

Offline (Pen and Paper via OMR sheet)

Frequency

Once a year

Languages

English and Kannada

Total Marks

180 marks

Total Questions

180 questions (60 per subject)

Question Type

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Time Allowed

80 minutes per subject

Marking Scheme

+1 mark for every correct answer

Negative Marking

None

Core Subjects

Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology

 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the KCET exam pattern?
A: 

The exam pattern of KCET comprises various components like duration of exam, marking scheme and others. KCET exam is conducted for three subjects (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) for a duration of 80 minutes each. One mark is awareded for every correct answers while there is no negative marking for incorrect answers in KCET exam. Applicants from Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga also have to appear for the KCET Kannada language exam which is conducted for a duration of 60 minutes.  

Q:   What is the marking scheme of the KCET?
A: 

The marking scheme for KCET is 1 mark for each correct answer with no negative marking.

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KCET Subject Wise Weightage

KCET Subject-Wise Chapter Weightage

Subject

Chapter

Number of Questions (Out of 60)

Mathematics

Calculus (Integration, Limits, Continuity, Derivatives)

15 - 18 Questions

 

Algebra (Matrices, Determinants, Complex Numbers)

12 - 14 Questions

 

Vectors & 3D Geometry

8 - 10 Questions

 

Coordinate Geometry (Straight Lines, Conics)

6 - 8 Questions

 

Trigonometry & Probability

4 - 6 Questions

Physics

Mechanics (Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Gravitation)

12 - 14 Questions

 

Electricity & Magnetism (Electrostatics, Current, Moving Charges)

12 - 14 Questions

 

Modern Physics & Semiconductor Devices

8 - 10 Questions

 

Optics (Ray and Wave Optics)

6 - 8 Questions

 

Heat & Thermodynamics / Properties of Matter

6 - 8 Questions

Chemistry

Organic Chemistry (Named Reactions, Alcohols, Aldehydes, Amines)

18 - 20 Questions

 

Physical Chemistry (Solutions, Electrochemistry, Kinetics)

18 - 20 Questions

 

Inorganic Chemistry (p-Block, d & f-Block, Coordination Compounds)

16 - 18 Questions

 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is there negative marking in the KCET?
A: 

No, there is no negative marking in KCET making it important for the candidates to attempt all questions.

Q:   What is the KCET marking scheme?
A: 

Karnataka Examination Authority releases the KCET marking scheme in the official notification. Applicants appearing in the exam will be awarded one mark for every correct answers. There will be no negative marking for wrong answers in KCET exam. KEA will not deduct any marks for unattempted questions in KCET exam. As the exam is conducted in offline mode, applicants are advise to mark their answers carefully in OMR sheet. The questions with multiple options marked will be considered as wrong. Candidates are advise to cross check their answers before marking it in OMR sheet. Do not write anything on KCET OMR sheet other than marking answers. 

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KCET 2027 Total Marks and Marking Scheme

The KCET exam carries a maximum of 180 marks, structured across three core subjects depending on the candidate's chosen stream. As per the marking scheme there are no penalties for wrong answers, encouraging students to attempt all questions.

KCET Subject-Wise Marks & Question Breakdown

Each subject paper is administered as a separate 80-minute exam session containing only multiple-choice questions: 

Subject

Total Questions

Maximum Marks

Time Duration

Physics

60 MCQs

60 Marks

80 Minutes

Chemistry

60 MCQs

60 Marks

80 Minutes

Mathematics / Biology

60 MCQs

60 Marks

80 Minutes

Total (Per Stream)

180 Questions

180 Marks

240 Minutes (4 Hours)

KCET Official Marking Scheme

  • +1 Mark is awarded for every bubble accurately darkened on the OMR sheet.

  • Incorrect Answer: 0 Marks. There is no negative marking under any circumstance.

  • 0 Marks. No marks are deducted for leaving a question blank.

  • 0 Marks. Marking more than one option for a single question is considered incorrect, but results in zero deduction.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the exam pattern of KCET?
A: 

The exam is in offline mode with questions asked in MCQ format for subjects like physics, mathematics, chemistry and biology containing 60 questions wherein each subject is a session for 80 minutes.

Q:   Which section is difficult to prepare in KCET?
A: 

Based on past year trends, Maths is generally considered difficult and time-consuming section to prepare for the Karnataka Common Entrance Test. Rest are easy to crack.

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KCET Sections and Important Topics

KCET is divided into four core subject sections: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Depending on selected academic stream, engineering candidates attempt PCM sections, while medical, pharmacy, and agricultural aspirants attempt PCB. The primary syllabus is based First and Second PUC (Class 11 & 12) curriculum, with following high-weightage topics:

Section

Structure of paper

Important Topics

Mathematics

• 60 Questions

• 60 Marks

• Application-based

• Tests problem-solving speed

• Calculus: Continuity, Differentiability, Integrals, Differential Equations (15+ questions)

• Vectors & 3D Geometry

• Algebra

• Probability & Trigonometry

Physics

• 60 Questions

• 60 Marks

• Mix of conceptual queries

• Quick numerical assessments

• Electricity & Magnetism: Current Electricity, Electric Charges, Moving Charges

• Mechanics: Laws of Motion, Motion in a Plane, Gravitation

• Optics: Ray Optics, Optical Instruments, Wave Optics

• Modern Physics: Atoms, Nuclei, Dual Nature of Radiation

Chemistry

• 60 Questions

• 60 Marks

• Direct and straightforward

• Most time-saving section

• Organic Chemistry: Alcohols, Phenols & Ethers, Named Reactions, Aldehydes & Ketones

• Physical Chemistry: Solutions, Chemical Kinetics, Electrochemistry

• Inorganic Chemistry: d and f-Block Elements, Coordination Compounds, p-Block Elements

Biology

• 60 Questions

• 60 Marks

• Strictly fact-based

• Sourced from textbooks

• Human & Plant Physiology: Circulation, respiration, plant life cycles

• Genetics & Evolution: Principles of inheritance, molecular basis

• Biotechnology: Principles and applications

• Ecology & Environment: Organisms, populations, ecosystem mechanics

 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the KCET syllabus?
A: 

The examination tests knowledge of 11th and 12th standard which includes subjects like physics, mathematics, chemistry and biology.

Q:   How can I get the KCET Syllabus PDF?
A: 

Candidates can find the KCET syllabus PDF from its official website. There the authorities have uploaded the KCET information brochure PDF which students can download for their perusal.

View Syllabus
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FAQs related to the KCET Exam Pattern 2027

Check here for additional FAQs related to the KCET exam pattern 2027:

Q:   What is a "good score" in KCET for top colleges?
A: 

To get a top college in KCET a score of 160+ marks out of 180 is generally considered good. This score will help students secure a top rank in top institutes.

Q:   What should I do if I find a question that is out of the syllabus or has wrong answer options in the KCET question paper?
A: 

In case any question is asked in KCET exam out of syllabus then applicants are advised to attempt the question. In case a question will be out of syllabus, KEA will provide full marks to applicants who will attempt the question which is out of syllabus.  

Q:   Does scoring 12/50 marks qualify me for KCET?
A: 

The minimum of 12 marks in Kannada Language test is required for specific eligibility clauses. It is advised for students to score a bit more than this score.

Q:   How is KCET rank calculated?
A: 

KCET ranks are calculated using 50% of KCET marks and 50% of the qualifying 2nd PUC core subject marks.

Q:   How do I prepare for Mathematics section in KCET?
A: 

To prepare for Mathematics effectively, it is important to practice mental math and use short-cut tricks for topics like Probability, Integrals, and Vector 3D.

Q:   Should I focus more on the 1st or 2nd PUC syllabus?
A: 

While both are included, 2nd PUC syllabus often carries higher weightage and should be prioritized.

Q:   I marked two answers for a question in KCET exam. One of the answers is correct. Will I get full marks for this question?
A: 

No, in case any candidate mark two answers for a single question then question will be considered as wrong. Applicants are advised to mark their answers carefully in the OMR sheet. Candidates need to use blue/black ball point pen to mark their answers in KCET 2026 exam.  

Q:   Which Chemistry topics have the highest weightage in KCET?
A: 

Some of the high-weightage topics in KCET are - d and f Block Elements, Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers, and Chemical Kinetics.

Q:   What is the duration of KCET UGET exam?
A: 

Each paper of KCET exam is conducted for 80 minutes. The Kannada language exam of KCET will be conducted for 60 minutes for Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates. KCET exam Biology and Mathematics exam will be conducted on same day while Physics & Chemistry exam will be conducted on separate day. 

Q:   Are NCERT books sufficient for KCET preparation?
A: 

Yes, NCERT books are suffieicnet to prepare for KCET, however, students can also refer to supplementary books such as past year question papers, RD Sharma etc. However, NCERT books are primary foundation for KCET, as the exam is based on the PUC syllabus.

Q:   How much time is sufficient for KCET preparation?
A: 

6-8 months is a sufficient time to prepare for the KCET. However, for students who are well-versed with 10+2, they will find cracking the KCET easy.

Q:   How can I get the KCET Syllabus PDF?
A: 

Candidates can find the KCET syllabus PDF from its official website. There the authorities have uploaded the KCET information brochure PDF which students can download for their perusal.

Q:   What is the KCET syllabus?
A: 

The examination tests knowledge of 11th and 12th standard which includes subjects like physics, mathematics, chemistry and biology.

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KCET Exam

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 weeks ago

To get admission to the BTech in AI and ML course at ATME, students have to clear the category-wise KCET rank. As per the ATME KCET cutoff 2025, the highest rank accepted for the General AI category was 61818. 

To know the maximum rank for other categories, see the table below. 

CategoryATME KCET cutoff 2025 (Last Round)
All India Category
General 61818
SC152441
ST108234
Home State Category
General 68751

N

Neerja Rohatgi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

To check the merit list for admission at Vidyashilp University for the BTech (Hons.) in Computer Science and Engineering (Data Science) course, students have to go to the official KEA exam portal, find the KCET/UGCET option and click on it. After this, if the merit list has been declared, you will

...Read more

N

Neerja Rohatgi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Yes, you can get admission at Vidyashilp University for its B.Tech. (Hons.) in Computer Science and Engineering (Data Science) course, if you belong to the General, SC, or ST AI categories. 

For the above categories, the highest ranks accepted were 127676, 222180.5 and 161927, respectively, according

...Read more

N

Neerja Rohatgi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Vidyashilp University KCET cutoff 2026 is affected by many factors, like the difficulty level of the exam, the number of applicants, the total number of test takers, etc. 

The Vidyashilp University cutoff 2026 regarding the KCET examination was published for admission to the B.Tech. (Hons.) in Comput

...Read more

N

Neerja Rohatgi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Vidyashilp University KCET cutoff 2025 was released for admission to the BTech course for various All India and Home State quota categories. 

For the General AI category students, the maximum KCET rank admissible was 127676 for the B.Tech. (Hons.) in Computer Science and Engineering (Data Science) co

...Read more

N

Neerja Rohatgi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

KCET is only for Karnataka domicile students — so students from other states cannot apply for KCET unless they have studied in Karnataka for a minimum number of years (usually Classes 6–10 or 11–12 in a Karnataka school).

COMEDK UGET, on the other hand, is open to all students across India, regardles

...Read more

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Round 1 closing rank in Aeronautical Engineering was 56,940 in 2025. By the final round, the closing rank was 97,687. It suggests that, though easier than Computer Science and Engineering, Aeronautical engineering is a popular specialised course.

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Total 1.5 to 1.8 laksh 

Check college website 

S

Sayan Mondal

Beginner-Level 2

Answered a month ago

Amity University, Bangalore has not listed KCET as a mandatory requirement for BPharma admissions. However, the institute does accept KCET scores for several UG level courses when picking candidates for admissions.

For more confirmation, candidates should raise this query with the admission desk of A

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Amity University, Bangalore has not mentioned KCET as a mandatory entrance exam for BBA at Amity University, Bangalore. However, most UG level admissions at the institute are decided through its scores. Thus, candidates are advised to ask this question from someone in the admission desk.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

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